Silmäkapseli

Silmäkapseli, often translated as eyeball capsule or ocular capsule, refers to the protective outer layers of the eyeball. In veterinary medicine, it is particularly relevant when discussing conditions affecting the eye's structure. It is not a single, distinct anatomical structure but rather a conceptual grouping of the cornea, sclera, and conjunctiva. The cornea is the transparent front part of the eye that covers the iris, pupil, and anterior chamber. The sclera, commonly known as the white of the eye, is the tough, opaque, fibrous outer layer that maintains the eye's shape and protects the inner structures. The conjunctiva is a thin, transparent membrane that covers the outer surface of the sclera and the inner surface of the eyelids. Together, these components form a robust barrier against external damage and infection, while also playing crucial roles in light refraction and ocular lubrication. Conditions like inflammation or trauma to any of these layers can compromise the integrity of the silmäkapseli. Understanding the collective function and structure of these layers is important for diagnosing and treating various ophthalmic diseases in both humans and animals.